Like the title says. I'm a PCM virgin and don't know the first thing about getting a tune. Hahaha...
Anyways, what exactly do i need to do to get a tune? Do i have to dyno before i get a tune, or can they tune it without one? Also, how do I ship the unit? I know where it's located but I've never taken it out or anything. Any help is appreciated, I just pretty much need to know exactly what needs to be done, step by step, on how to go about my programming.

I'm going to post this in Computer Diagnostics/Programming too.

 

No dyno run is required. Just send them your unit and your mods listed, and they should take care of the rest.

 

If you plan on doing any future mods that require computer tuning, your best bet would be to get a cable from AKM Cables and get the unlimited email package from MadZ28. $95 for the cable and $60 for the unlimited updates.

It is pretty simple, just get a laptop and connect the cable and upload the tune. Its really simple and he can adjust the tune for whatever you want.

You can also talk to Brian at www.pcmforless.com

Both Ion (MadZ28) and Brian do great work.

 

Ion at madz28.com did me VERY good. Could not have been happier with his service. He was very,very,very,very,very fast. I made a mistake that could have cost me more money but he worked with me instead of saying "tough shi*" which many probly would have done. I can not say anything about pcmforless because I have not had any dealings with them but, Ion was very fast,friendly and understanding of a mistake made me. I can promise you next time I need a tune I WILL be going back to him. His prices can also not be beat. What more needs to be said?

 

Yeah I was looking at Ion's page compared to PCMforless and I liked the way Ion's was set up, and the prices were better too. I'm going to go with MadZ28, and Ion if you're reading this, then expect an e-mail here in the next week or so. I can't do it next week but the week after I can have my car down for a while and it won't affect me. But there are still some things I need to know.

1) Is there a guide for taking out the PCM, or is it seriously as easy as unscrewing 4 screws and disconnecting some wires?

2) How do I ship the thing safely?

3) Roughly how long is down time? 7 days? 10 days?

Thanks guys, I really do appreciate the replies.
-Ryan

 

Hello Ryan,

I am planning to add an instruction page real soon, but in the mean time, I can give you some instructions here.

Before removing the PCM from the car, disconnect the negative battery terminal. Then take out the two 10mm bolts holding the PCM/bracket in place and carefully take out the PCM.
Once it's out, there will be four connectors to disconnect. Each of these has a red retainer. Remove the retainer first, then using a flathead screwdriver or something sharp, pry out the connectors.
You don't have to remove the plastic bracket from the PCM case. Mail them together if it's easier for you.

Just use some packing peanuts or some paper/old newspaper for packing material. No need for any special precautions. Some people mail them without any packing material at all. I wouldn't do it that way, but they are very durable and will take the shipping abuse even if packed poorly.

We usually mail the PCMs back one to two business days after we receive them and it takes another 2 days for Priority Mail shipping to reach you.

 

if you use packing peanuts, i like to wrap the pcm in plastic bags so none of the small stuff gets in the terminals

Ion, you mean instructions page for do it yourself tuners or for removing the pcm from the car?

 

Good point!
Plus shipping peanuts and tuner's carpet don't mix well for some reason....

Steve, I meant instructions for customers using my services.. (how to upload an email tuning file, how to install a pcm, how to install a chip, etc)
But I will have something for DIYers as well, when I have more time.

 

hehe

that'll be a cool feature

 

Excellent, thank you very much.

One last question. How do I start the whole process? Do I e-mail you with a list of mods and what I want done, and then just ship my PCM to you? Or is there something more specific about it?

Again, thank you.
-Ryan

 

thats how i did mine
include you return address in the e-mail and on the box the pcm is in so its easier to match up the orders

 

Fill out an order sheet here:
http://www.madz28.com/services.php

Then you can place the order on the website, or send a money order. For a 94 that will be $80 + $13 shipping.